Forest Green club doctor Alistair Smith leaves the New Lawn

FOREST Green club doctor Alistair Smith is hanging up his stethoscope after a decade of medical service at the New Lawn.

A GP at Locking Hill Surgery in Stroud since 1999, Doctor Smith took the medical reins from Dr Ralph Stephenson .

He said: “I am fortunate in being able to count many members of the playing squad, club staff, directors and fans as neighbours and friends as well as patients and colleagues. I shall miss their company and camaraderie on match days.

“I hope perhaps to get involved again at some point in the future, but in the meantime the club is now looking to move in a new direction, a decision which I entirely understand and I wish them every success for the future.”

The Butterow-based medic will continue his role as team doctor at League Two outfit Cheltenham Town.

Dr Jim Holmes from Rowcroft Medical Centre, Stroud, will take over the role as club doctor.